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Test drove the new 528 just to get a feel for the new N20 engine. Really responsive when paired with the 8 speed tranny. Little lag, and I didn't experience any of the tip in issues that the car mags and forums have noticed. Nice growl to it, and not too harsh at the upper rpm range. Does sound diesel-esque at idle and not particularly nice to hear standing next to it. My only worries for this engine are like all recent DI/turbos: carbon build up and oil usage. Any thoughts/comments?

I have not yet driven a car with the N20 in it but the more I read and look at it -- it seems like the 328i is going to be a great value and probably a very popular car. I really need to get out and test drive a 528i sometime soon!

I'm not offended by a 4 cylinder engine in these class of cars. Audi has already been doing it, and I'm sure Mercedes will eventually follow (and now has the 1.8T). Smaller engines/cylinder count will be the future for all manufacturers. Big engine/cylinder count is wholly an American phenomenon. The biggest sellers for the big three German makers in Europe are 4 cylinder diesels. More than anything I hope we get the 320d eventually. If the engine runs right with peppy acceleration and can be reasonably reliable, that's all I'm after.

Totally agree, i am planning on ordering manual...why dont you want another manual?

I drive in town too much and my wife drives my car too. She's awesome manual driver but she'd rather not. I will not rule it out though, I will definitely consider it because the thought it just too exciting for me to pass on it.

I drive in town too much and my wife drives my car too. She's awesome manual driver but she'd rather not. I will not rule it out though, I will definitely consider it because the thought it just too exciting for me to pass on it.

I have driven auto all my life and the ZF in my 335 was pretty good, fast shifts, paddles...
I think owning a manual would be fun, will take me a little to master it, but whatev. I can understand if you have a long commute, in traffic, or your wife will drive it. I dont think you can go wrong with either transmission.

I drive in town too much and my wife drives my car too. She's awesome manual driver but she'd rather not. I will not rule it out though, I will definitely consider it because the thought it just too exciting for me to pass on it.

I live in Atlanta as well and afraid my next car will have to be auto. I'm hopeful the 8 speed step is as good as the reviews indicate.